1986 Ford Escort vs. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 317 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 57 L |
